The National Security Concept is a framework document that serves as a guide for creating sector-specific development and action plans. The 2026 security policy is the six in line and builds on the 2023 National Security Concept. The document is drafted by the Government of the Republic and approved by the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament).
The National Security Concept is updated or amended according to changes in the security environment and Estonia’s capacity to ensure its security, but each term of the Riigikogu updates them at least once every four years.
The objective of Estonian security policy is to ensure the independence and sovereignty of the Estonian state, the survival of the people and the state, territorial integrity, constitutional order, and the security of the population. Estonia implements its security policy by respecting fundamental rights and freedoms and protecting constitutional values.
We defend the Estonian state, society, the preservation of the Estonian people and culture, and freedom. Our security rests on democracy, the rule of law, strong allied relationships and whole-of-society preparedness. Estonia defends itself against all threats.
The aim of Estonia’s security policy is to secure the independence and sovereignty of the Republic of Estonia, its territorial integrity, constitutional order, the security of its population, the functioning of society, and the continuity of the Estonian nation, language and culture.
The foundation of Estonia’s security lies in the preservation of a social order that respects human dignity, fundamental rights and freedoms, democratic governance and the rule of law. Estonia is part of the community of democratic states and supports its unity and continuity. Estonia’s security is supported by a system of international relations based on respect for the international law.
National security is founded on the protection of people and the living environment, strong national defence and a successful economy
Estonia values a society in which all people have equal opportunities, are supported and able to live long, healthy and fulfilling lives, where inequality and poverty are reduced and where long and high-quality personal and working lives, social participation and self-realisation are supported for all.
The economy and security are mutually reinforcing – a successful economy makes it possible to strengthen security, and a secure investment environment is a precondition for economic growth. Estonia seeks to maintain an attractive economic environment that supports balanced and competitive development in all regions. Comprehensive education and research and development form the basis of a successful and future-oriented Estonia.
Estonia’s security is built on international law, allied relationships, independent defence capability and indivisible security
Estonia’s security policy is based on the principles of international law and those enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations (UN), in particular the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states and the right and freedom of every state to choose its own security arrangements. Ensuring Estonia’s security is not directed against any other state.
We are an integral part of European security. Estonia’s security is supported by membership of the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), as well as on close cooperation with allies and other international partners. Estonia regards its own security and that of its allies and partners as indivisible.
The whole of society contributes to Estonia’s security
Estonia’s security policy is based on a broad concept of security, taking into account all trends and factors that affect the security of the state. The implementation of security policy is based on the principles of a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach.
Security considerations are integrated into the development of policy, sectoral development plans and legislation, as well as into the design and development of work processes, supply chains, infrastructure and international cooperation. To strengthen security, Estonia is accelerating efforts to enhance its independent defence capability, allocating from 2026 at least 5% of gross domestic product to national defence, in addition to investments in comprehensive national defence. Ensuring security in the state and society is a cross-cutting, continuous and goal-oriented endeavour.
Estonia prevents war through deterrence and will defend itself in all circumstances
Our objective is to prevent war against Estonia by deterring the adversary and rendering aggression unfeasible. Should deterrence fail, Estonia will defend itself in all circumstances and against all threats, regardless of their origin or the time and place of their manifestation, and against any adversary, however powerful. Estonia will never surrender.
By preparing to prevail in the event of war and to respond to the most serious crises, Estonia is also prepared to address lower-impact crises, in which the Defence Forces and the Estonian Defence League support civilian authorities in preparedness and response where necessary. In the event of war, military defence is the state’s primary effort, with civilian structures providing maximum support to the Defence Forces in ensuring Estonia’s military defence.
We defend Estonia against threats on land, at sea, in the air, in space and in cyberspace, and against foreign information manipulation. In strengthening preparedness, Estonia’s national defence is based on a broad concept aimed at protecting the state and the nation and preparing for that purpose, using all military and non-military capabilities and means at the state’s disposal and involving actors across society.
Estonia’s security requires whole-of-society preparedness, responsibility and cooperation
Estonia’s security depends on the preparedness and the will to defend and fight of every individual and of society as a whole. In preparing for crises and war, Estonia follows the principle of continuity of functions: all constitutional institutions, public sector bodies, local authorities and providers of vital services perform their roles in crisis and wartime, as well as in normal circumstances, although the scope of tasks may change.
Preparing for crises and war and, where necessary, responding to them is the responsibility of every constitutional institution, authority and individual, within their respective competences and in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity, acting at the lowest competent level. In doing so, cooperation is undertaken and mutual assistance is provided. The state encourages and supports voluntary activities related to this.
Last updated: 23.07.2026
